Here’s a technology breakthrough that has countless Sci-Fi horror film implications: The loveable Honda Asimo Robot can now be controlled via thought.

Honda’s Research Institute developed a brain-machine interface (that looks a lot like an old-school hair-dryer), which can interpret brain waves for four basic movements. According to a report on Physorg.com, humans can use the device to control Asimo’s arms and legs. It also mentions the “tongue”, but since Asimo has no tongue (in fact, it never speaks for itself–Asimo’s voice is typically generated by an off-stage handler) that seems highly unlikely. Perhaps they meant “torso”. The report adds that making actual movements yourself is not required to move Asimo. Instead, ‘brain-machine” wearers need only imagine, say, moving their right arm–and concentrating really hard–to get Asimo to do the same.

For now, the Brain Machine device looks like it might fill a small room, so this technology is a long way from any sort of practical application. Still, it does point the way to more useful home helper robots that can act on your thoughts, instead of direct commands. On the other hand, you have to wonder what would happen with a thought controlled Asimo and a few dark thoughts about the lazy spouse…